Cocoabsent? Representations of Race and Boyhood in Infant and Toddler Media
Project Author
Issue Date
2022-12
Authors
Roberson, Heather Moore
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Keywords
Black boyhood; , Critical race theory , Childhood studies , Infant and toddler media
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Abstract
The hit streaming series Cocomelon has become a household name for many families with infants, toddlers, and kids at heart. Cocomelon introduces our youngest population(s) to a Western world that privileges flawed and utopian post-racial perspectives. I contend that the show presents a perspective on race and identity that glorifies color-blindness and ignores racial differences that would educate children about the complexity and beauty of diversity. This commentary imagines a Black infant and toddler boyhood in children’s media that prioritizes race, culture, and identity and recommends other children’s programs that invest in culturally diverse representations of childhood.
Description
Chair
Major
Department
Community and Justice Studies
Recorder
License
© The Author(s) 2022
Citation
Moore Roberson, Heather. "Cocoabsent?", Boyhood Studies 15, 1-2 (2022): 171-182, accessed Jan 19, 2023, https://doi.org/10.3167/bhs.2022.15010211
Version
Published article
Honors
Publisher
Berghahn Journals